Installing a rear view mirror that has fallen is a simple job. It’s important to know how a common mistake could break the windshield if this simple task is done improperly. It’s very easy to glue the rear view mirror button upside down. I worked with someone years ago, that made this mistake. When he tried to remove the metal button from the windshield so it could be glued back on correctly the windshield was cracked! This simple job cost the company we worked for at the time, $350 to have a replacement windshield installed. Read on to find out what type of adhesive is recommended, the step by step instructions on how to secure the fallen mirror and what to do if the button was mistakenly glued on upside down.
Rear View Mirror Installation Tips (50 to 75 Degrees Fahrenheit)
- Use a rear view mirror kit made specifically for bonding the rear view mirror back on (like Permatex Rearview Mirror Adhesive).
- Separate the button from the rear view mirror. It is either held together with a screw or a spring retainer; the type without a screw will be pryed off with a screwdriver.
- Mark the position where the mirror will be re-glued. Use a crayon or piece of paper tape on the outside of the windshield.
- Scrape the old glue off of the inside of the windshield and the button. Clean the windshield and button with rubbing alcohol.
- The activator vial has a separator built into it, squeeze the vial until the inner portion breaks, the two parts will mix and is ready for application.
- Do not touch the surfaces with your fingers, apply the activator generously to the windshield and button. Allow to dry for 2 minutes.
- Open the adhesive and apply ONE drop to the center of the button (apply to the correct side of the button). One drop only, more isn’t better.
- Immediately hold the button in place on the windshield being sure that the it is right side up. Hold firmly for 60 seconds.
- Wait for fifteen minutes before mounting the mirror to the button.
If the button was glued on upside down or the wrong side to the glass, DO NOT try to remove it. Prying or heating to remove an incorrectly installed button may result in cracking the windshield! It’s best if this happens to purchase a new button and bond it on top of the incorrectly installed button.